Kyle Dawson Elected Captain for 2013-14 Season

NEW HAVEN, Conn. – The Yale men's tennis team gathered Thursday to elect its captain for the 2013-14 season, and the honor went to junior Kyle Dawson. He becomes the third person in his family to lead the Bulldog squad, with his two brothers having captained the Yale team in their senior years as well.

"It is a true honor to be elected captain of the Yale men's tennis team," Dawson said. "I am thrilled that my teammates have the confidence in me to lead them to a successful season next year. This year's captain Daniel Hoffman… [and] fellow seniors John Huang, Marc Powers and Zachary Dean showed great leadership this year and have helped me understand the things that must be done in order to lead a team."

Dawson, who is a history major in Jonathan Edwards College and a three-year varsity letterman, undoubtedly comes from a family of leaders. Jeff Dawson '09 was the Eli captain during the 2008-09 season, while Connor Dawson '10 succeeded his brother at the helm of the Yale team and led his teammates to an extremely successful season that culminated in a 5-2 Ivy League record.

Dawson has made a unique impression during his three years at Yale so far, as his exceptional and constant display of team spirit and perseverance earned him the Stuart D. Ludlum, Jr. '62 Memorial Award last season. His positive attitude toward the game and his resilient spirit has been an example for all of his fellow players during his time at Yale. In addition, Dawson can always be counted upon to give uplifting vocal support to his teammates.

Last fall, Dawson put together a 6-1 doubles record that included a win in the 'C' doubles draw at the Princeton-Farnsworth Invitational, alongside Dean. He also reached the semifinal of his singles draw at that tournament.

When asked about his outlook for the team next year, Dawson was upbeat.

"I look forward to leading the team next year, along with my fellow classmates. We have tremendous potential next year, and I am confident that our talents will come together and culminate in a successful year."

He added, "Being part of the Yale men's tennis team is truly special, and I am excited and blessed that I have the opportunity to experience yet another great year with incredible teammates."